Eases foreign work permit regulations
07 Mar 2025
On 7 March 2025, Singapore announced changes to its Foreign Workforce Policy. The key amendments are as follows:
Extension of the M-SEP scheme. As of 1 May 2025, the Manpower for Strategic Economic Priorities (M-SEP) scheme will be extended from two to three years. The scheme enables eligible firms—those that promote investment aligned with Singapore’s hub strategy, foster innovation or engage in research and development—to hire or train local employees in exchange for additional foreign workforce flexibility. Under this arrangement, firms may employ S Pass and work permit holders up to 5 per cent above their existing Dependency Ratio Ceiling, subject to a cap of 50 workers per firm.
Easing of long-term work pass restrictions. From July 2025, Singapore will abolish the maximum employment period for foreign workers, which previously ranged from 14 to 26 years depending on sector, skill level and country of origin. In addition, the maximum employment age for work permit holders will be raised from 60 to 63 years, aligning with the national retirement age.
Increase in the age limit for new work permit applicants. Also from July 2025, the maximum age for new applicants will rise from 50 to 61 years for non-Malaysians, and from 58 to 61 years for Malaysians.
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